Boys and girls from Solihull School were enthralled when popular BBC radio presenter Simon Mayo returned to his old school for the launch of his new children’s book.
Simon joined book lovers from the independent school’s Lower School for the launch of ‘Itch Rocks’, the second novel in his series about the adventures of Itchingham Lofte. The 14-year old, nicknamed ‘Itch’, uses science as a weapon and the elements as his gadgets to make the world safe from unscrupulous scientists and terrorists. Simon Mayo, the presenter of Drivetime on BBC Radio 2, which features the popular Book Club Show, was a pupil at Solihull School in the early 1970s.
He took the opportunity to read out passages from his work and discuss it with a packed audience of 11 to 15-year olds in Solihull School’s Bushell Hall. Simon also signed copies of his new book and gave writing tips before being given a tour of the School including its new Denis Tomlin Archive Room.
Alison Bond, Director of Development and Alumni Relations, said: “We were delighted that Simon launched his new book at his old school. Our pupils were thrilled by his presentation and related to the character and adventures of Itch and his love of science.”
Simon was recognised as Radio Broadcaster of the Year at the 34th Broadcasting Press Guild Awards and Speech Broadcaster of the Year at the Sony Radio Academy Awards in 2008. He was also guest of honour at Solihull School’s Speech Day in the same year.